León to Santiago de Compostela: Camino De Santiago with Joyce DeToni-Hill,
September 1 - September 16, 2026

Overview

To walk on the Camino de Santiago is to set sail on a river of time. Every ancient church tower, every proud castle, every silent ruin, every rusting, ringing bell has a story to tell the passing pilgrim. These landmarks are the rugged and rounded boulders in the river, silently testifying to the hands that long ago placed them here. The river itself is the thousand-year stream of pilgrims - men, women, children even - who set out toward the far west of Spain to start a new chapter, to remember a lost loved one, to release a burden, to lift a prayer, or to savor an adventure. Pilgrims over this wide estuary of many channels have hardened under their feet a firm path in the soil that beckons the traveler of today to join the procession and be forever changed.

This itinerary begins at the beautiful city of León, with its historic cathedral and fascinating medieval quarters. The walk continues to the Galician town of Sarría where, instead of walking through the busiest and most hectic part of the Camino the group skips ahead to the last official stage, beginning at O Pedrouzo. From there the group walks into Santiago de Compostela to receive their compostela completion certificates and enjoy the beauty and meaning of this ancient pilgrimage destination.

Map of the route

Daily Itinerary

September 1, 2026 - Gather in León

Description

Welcome to the beautiful city of León, easily reached by train or bus from Madrid and other parts of Spain. After check-in at the group hotel, take time to relax and explore before gathering for an afternoon orientation and our first shared dinner. Founded in AD 70 as the base of the Roman Seventh Legion—hence its name—León still reflects its Roman layout with ancient walls and four city gates. For centuries it was capital of the Kingdom of León, flourishing through gold and wool trade across the high Meseta.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - Explore León

Description

Enjoy a full day exploring the treasures of León. Visit the Basilica and Museo of San Isidoro, the royal Pantheon of Kings, the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, and the historic Monastery of San Marcos, now the Parador de León. Stroll along Calle Ancha, the lively pedestrian street ideal for pilgrim watching and outdoor dining. As Cicerone author Sandy Brown notes, León offers a rare blend of Roman, medieval, and modern charm—a city where the Camino’s long story comes vividly to life.

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Thursday, September 3, 2026 - León to Hospitál de Órbigo

Description

After breakfast, we transfer from León to Chozas de Abajo to begin our first day of walking on the Camino de Santiago. Today’s route leads across the quiet plains of León to the historic town of Hospital de Órbigo, where the ancient Roman Via Traiana once crossed the Órbigo River. Once a vital stronghold and later home to a renowned pilgrim hospital, Hospital de Órbigo invites us to pause on its long medieval bridge—a symbol of welcome for centuries of pilgrims.

distance: 19 km

ascent: 213 m

descent: 231 m

% hard surfaces: 65

difficulty rating: 3

Friday, September 4, 2026 - Hospitál de Órbigo to Astorga

Description

Today’s walk brings us to Astorga, a city layered with history and charm. Once the capital of the ancient Astur tribe, the Romans renamed it Asturica Augusta and established it as a key outpost along the Via Traiana to protect the western gold mines. Later, it became one of Spain’s earliest bishoprics and a crossroads for pilgrims from across Europe. Explore its Roman walls, episcopal palace designed by Gaudí, and vibrant plaza that celebrates the Camino’s living heritage.

distance: 17 km

ascent: 270 m

descent: 215 m

% hard surfaces: 73

difficulty rating: 3

Saturday, September 5, 2026 - Explore Astorga

Description

Enjoy a free day exploring the many treasures of Astorga. Visit the Roman ruins, including the 50-meter Ergástula tunnel, and stroll through Plaza España to admire the 17th-century Town Hall, crowned by a charming 1748 clock with figures dressed as Maragato mountain people. Don’t miss the Chocolate Museum, celebrating Astorga’s long confectionery tradition, or the 15th–16th century Cathedral with its Chapel of San Miguel and Renaissance altarpiece by Gaspar Becerra. Across the square stands the stunning Bishop’s Palace and museum, designed by Antoni Gaudí and completed in 1913

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Sunday, September 6, 2026 - Astorga to Rabanal del Camino

Description

Leaving Astorga, the Camino begins a gradual ascent into the Montes de León. The climb is so gentle it can almost make you forget you’re entering the mountains. The trail winds through charming Maragato villages—Murias de Rechivaldo, Santa Catalina de Somoza, and El Ganso—each with stone houses, shaded lanes, and welcoming cafés. By late afternoon, you arrive in Rabanal del Camino, a tranquil mountain hamlet that has hosted pilgrims for centuries on their journey toward Cruz de Ferro.

distance: 19.9 km

ascent: 364 m

descent: 87 m

% hard surfaces: 23

difficulty rating: 3

Monday, September 7, 2026, Rabanal del Camino to Molinaseca

Description

Today’s walk offers some of the Camino’s most striking mountain vistas. The path climbs steadily toward the Cruz de Ferro, where pilgrims have paused for centuries to lay down a stone and reflect on the journey’s meaning. Wildflowers often brighten the route in spring and summer, and sweeping views reward the effort. After El Acebo, the trail descends steeply toward Molinaseca—beautiful but challenging underfoot. For those who prefer, van transport is available from El Acebo for a comfortable ride down to our lodging in Molinaseca.

distance: 23.7 km

ascent: 421 m

descent: 943 m

% hard surfaces: 23

difficulty rating: 4

Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Molinaseca to Ponferrada

Description

Today’s walk leads from Molinaseca into Ponferrada, a city rich in history and legend. Set high above the confluence of the Sil and Boeza Rivers, Ponferrada was a thriving settlement long before the Roman Empire claimed it. Destroyed and rebuilt through Visigothic and Moorish invasions, the town later became known for its “iron bridge” (pons ferrata), which gave the city its name. Explore the impressive 12th-century Templar Castle, once the fortress of the Knights Templar, and wander Ponferrada’s lively old quarter and riverside cafés.

distance: 7.5 km

ascent: 116 m

descent: 168 m

% hard surfaces: 23

difficulty rating: 2

Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Ponferrada to Villafranca del Bierzo

Description

Today’s mostly flat stage unfolds in three distinct sections. Leaving Ponferrada, enjoy a lovely riverside promenade before the path turns through neighborhoods, gardens, and vineyards toward Cacabelos. From there, the official Camino follows the highway for several kilometers—less scenic but efficient. Those who prefer a quieter route can take the alternative path after Pieros through the hamlet of Valtuille de Arriba, walking among rolling vineyards and stone wineries. The day ends in beautiful Villafranca del Bierzo, often called the “gateway to Galicia.”

distance: 23.6 km

ascent: 351 m

descent: 374 m

% hard surfaces: 23

difficulty rating: 4

Thursday, September 10, 2026 - Villafranca del Bierzo to Las Herrerias

Description

Today’s walk follows the Valcarce River upstream toward the mountains of Galicia. The path winds through forested hillsides and small farming villages, gradually climbing as the terrain becomes more rural and quiet. The day ends in Las Herrerías—Spanish for “The Ironworks”—a hamlet once known for its forges that processed ore from the nearby Sierra del Caurel. Today the village retains traces of its past, including an 18th-century church, remnants of two fortifications, and a working blacksmith’s shop.

distance: 20.3 km

ascent: 392 m

descent: 237 m

% hard surfaces: 23

difficulty rating: 4

Friday, September 11, 2026 - Las Herrerias to O Cebreiro

Description

Today’s stage is short but steep and unforgettable. Leaving the quiet hamlet of Las Herrerías, the path climbs steadily through chestnut and oak forests toward the Galician border. Stone farmhouses and misty pastures line the route as you pass through La Faba and Laguna de Castilla, villages that seem untouched by time. At last, you crest the ridge and enter O Cebreiro, a mountain village of slate roofs and ancient pallozas—a place long revered for its Celtic heritage, timeless beauty, and spiritual stillness.

distance: 7.9 km

ascent: 664 m

descent: 11 m

% hard surfaces: 54

difficulty rating: 5

Saturday, September 12, 2026 - O Cebreiro to Triacastela

Description

Leaving the mountaintop village of O Cebreiro, the Camino follows high ridges with panoramic views across Galicia’s rolling green valleys. The path passes the small chapel of San Roque and the pilgrim monument overlooking the vast horizon before descending gently through pine forests and quiet stone hamlets. Wildflowers and Celtic crosses mark the way as you approach Triacastela, a town named for its “three castles” long vanished but still remembered. This stage combines mountain majesty, pastoral calm, and a deep sense of Camino heritage.

distance: 20.7 km

ascent: 306 m

descent: 925 m

% hard surfaces: 21

difficulty rating: 5

Sunday, September 13, 2026 - Triacastela to Sarria

Description

Leaving Triacastela, the Camino divides, and we follow the more scenic route through San Xil, a peaceful path of woodlands, meadows, and quiet farmsteads. After reaching Sarria—a bustling pilgrim hub marking the final 100 kilometers to Santiago—we’ll gather and transfer by van to O Pedrouzo, about an hour and a half away. O Pedrouzo, the administrative center of the Municipality of O Pino, offers modern comforts and a welcoming atmosphere for pilgrims preparing for their final day’s walk to Santiago de Compostela. Overnight in O Pedrouzo.

distance: 17.6 km

ascent: 314 m

descent: 544 m

% hard surfaces: 25

difficulty rating: 4

Monday, September 14, 2026 - O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela

Description

The final day of walking begins among eucalyptus groves and green hills, a surprisingly peaceful approach to Santiago. The path climbs gently twice before entering the city’s outskirts, where anticipation builds with every step. From Monte do Gozo—the “Hill of Joy”—pilgrims glimpse the cathedral towers for the first time, a moment of reflection and gratitude after so many miles. The route then winds through city streets to the magnificent Praza do Obradoiro, where the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela awaits, marking a moving and unforgettable culmination of your pilgrimage journey.

distance: 19.9 km

ascent: 407 m

descent: 433 m

% hard surfaces: 22

difficulty rating: 4

Tuesday, September 15, 20-26 - Explore Santiago de Compostela

Description

Spend the day exploring the many treasures of Santiago de Compostela. Visit the magnificent Cathedral, where you may attend Mass and, if you’re fortunate, witness the swinging of the historic botafumeiro. Guided tours of the cathedral, museum, and rooftop offer remarkable perspectives on this sacred place. Wander through the lively Mercado de Abastos for regional foods or a casual lunch. The Museo das Peregrinacións and the Museum of the Galician People provide deep insight into local history and pilgrim culture. Or simply stroll the old town, shop, and enjoy the art of people-watching.

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Wednesday, September 16, 2026 - Depart Santiago

Description

After breakfast, our pilgrimage together comes to an end. Take time for a final stroll through Santiago’s winding streets, enjoy a quiet coffee in the Praza das Praterías, or make one last visit to the Cathedral for reflection and gratitude. Whether you continue on to Finisterre or begin your journey home, carry with you the friendships, memories, and insights gained on the Camino de Santiago—a journey whose spirit continues long after the walking ends.

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